Bollywood lensman-actor Natraj Subramaniam aka Natty, best known for films like Jab We Met (2007), Golmaal Returns (2008), Raanjhanaa (2013) and Puli (2015), is a busy man these days. He manages both cinematography and acting with equal ease, but it looks like he finds the latter more gratifying.
Awaiting the release of Bongu and Enkitta Modhadhey, Natty says cinema is his first love. “But acting wasn’t something I really planned. It happened eventually. After Sathuranga Vettai (2014) became a hit, it gave me more confidence to pursue acting. I decided to chase my dreams after,” he smiles.
Speaking about Bongu, he tells us, “I’ve undergone a major image makeover for this film and I play a super-stylish character, in contrast to the roles I’ve played so far. The story, a road-based action-thriller, revolves around intelligent car hacking and the problems that hackers face. Ruhi Singh stars opposite him and newbie Taj, a former associate of art director Sabu Cyril is the director.”
Having shot the film in and around Chennai, Dindigul, Madurai and Mumbai; Natty talks about the challenges he faced while shooting the project.
“Some expensive cars like Rolls-Royce have been used and we sought permission to shoot in one of their showrooms in Ahmedabad,” he shares.
So, how did he get into the world of cinema? “I wanted to do a diploma in Mechanical Engineering, but something drew me towards cinematography. It’s the power of able to listen and visualise things before I see them. The process is exciting- conveying the script through lighting. Back then, I couldn’t even afford to buy a camera. From borrowing the equipment on rent, to what I am of now today, I think it has been one heck of a journey,” he says.
Quiz him on his inspiration to pursue cinematography, and pat comes the answer: “Conrad Hall!”
As an actor, he’s quite particular that all his films are different. “In the past few years, I’ve taken acting seriously and I am open to picking up roles if I find the script interesting. When I choose roles, I make sure that my presence is felt more than I am being seen onscreen. It’s all about the impact! The kind of characters don’t mind me. As long as they are defined by its strength and not the length,” he smiles.
Before signing off, he laughs, “People often tell me that I look like Rajinikanth sir. What could give me more happiness than this?”